Immunofluorescent localization of the female sex steroids in the porcine ovary.

Antibodies against progesterone 20-(o-carboxymethyl) oxime and oestrone 17-(o-carboxymethyl) oxime have been applied to porcine ovaries as the first layer in the indirect immunofluorescent technique. In the Graafian follicles, both steroids have been demonstrated within single cells of the theca interna. In the corpora lutea, the same steroids were found in the cells assembled at the periphery of the organ, as well as around the large vessels. Degenerating cells present in the corpora albicans revealed positive immunofluorescence together with distinct autofluorescence. Similarly, the atretic follicles and fragments of the interstitial gland showed both immunofluorescence and autofluorescence. The immunofluorescent localization of steroids was confirmed by the similar distribution of sudanophilic substances. However, the differentiation between the two hormones investigated was not certain.